PORT ADELAIDE’S Chairman David Koch addressed a packed Port Club of more than 300 Port Adelaide members on Friday night at the club’s Annual General Meeting.

Mr Koch’s message to all in attendance was one of pride of what the club was able to achieve in 2017 – a net operating surplus of $999,464 before amortisation and depreciation, the club’s third consecutive profit, a return to AFL and SANFL finals, and an unprecedented international match in China – as well as, excitement for what the 2018 season holds.

“We are approaching the 2018 season with eager anticipation,” Mr Koch said.

“We have developed an on-field list with a good balance of youth, experience, skill and x-factor to work towards our goals.

“Our recruiting and list management team take a long-term view of the playing requirements to fit with the coaches’ game-plan.

“This combined with careful financial management around our TPP (salary cap) has seen us put together what we believe is a strong list.

Mr Koch was especially thankful for the support of the club’s 60,000 members and the 40,000-strong home-game average attendance, which he believes underpins the club’s strong and vibrant business model.

The ambitious initiative to grow Port Adelaide’s brand, and the game of AFL in China was also a high priority on the agenda this evening.

“In 2017, we promised that China would be the new frontier, and in 2017 we saw a significant uplift in the revenue generated from this initiative,” Mr Koch said.

“The delivery of a game in China, establishing a venue and infrastructure from scratch is not a small undertaking and it required vision and commitment from those involved.

“Together with our partner Shanghai Cred, we welcomed investment from Ausgold Mining, Cathay Pacific, Tourism Australia, South Australian Tourism Commission, Australia Post, MJK and Haneco Lighting to name a few.”

Mr Koch was also thrilled with the continued support of the club’s joint major partner, Oak, and thanked them for their significant impact on the club’s financial growth.

He also thanked departing joint major partner, Renault, for their five years of significant contribution, which helped shape what a modern sports partnerships looks like, and re-established the club back in 2013.

Mr Koch applauded the club’s community programs, and said “our investment of $2.5million was significant” in helping a wide range of community initiatives including working with the Department of State Development to support the significant South Australian workforce facing the loss of their jobs from the closure of Holden.

“We also launched the Multicultural Power Cup program which uses football to help youth of all different backgrounds and cultures come together as equals through sport,” he said.

There were two Director announcements to conclude the AGM - Board Appointed Director Kevin Osborn, and Member Elected Director Trevor Thiele – whose terms had both expired.

Mr Koch announced that Mr Osborn had advised of his desire to continue as a Director and the Board put his re-election to the AFL for a further term of three years, which was endorsed by the AFL.

Mr Koch then announced the position of Member Elected Director went to the incumbent Mr Thiele – receiving more than 48 per cent of the votes.

The club thanks all nominees for their participation in the process and warmly welcome Trevor’s continuation on the Port Adelaide Football Club Board.

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